United Airlines Will Now Permanently Ban People Who Don't Use Headphones on Flights

"We've always encouraged customers to use headphones when listening to audio content - and our Wi-Fi rules already remind customers to use headphones. With the expansion of Starlink, it seemed like a good time to make that even clearer by adding it to the contract of carriage."

"United now says it reserves the right to deny boarding to anyone who plays personal devices on speaker - and violators could even be permanently banned."

"The updated document also states that any passenger who causes United Airlines any loss, damage, or expense of any kind may be required to reimburse the airline."

United Airlines updated its contract of carriage on February 27th to explicitly prohibit passengers from playing audio on personal devices without headphones. Violators face potential denial of boarding and possible permanent bans from the airline. The airline states it has always encouraged headphone use and decided to formalize this rule with the expansion of Starlink connectivity. Passengers who forget headphones can request free basic pairs from the airline. The updated contract also clarifies that passengers causing any loss, damage, or expense may be required to reimburse United. Other removable offenses include offensive clothing, using cell service mid-flight, and violating smoking restrictions.

Read at Consequence